France unveils international, European strategic plan

March 19, 2018

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The French Ministry for Agriculture and Food operates in a world that is facing numerous global challenges. Since its last strategic plan issued in 2013, the context of the ministry’s action has changed significantly (increase in importance of developing countries and NGOs, adoption of the sustainable development goals in the United Nations and of the Paris agreement…), Which lead to the necessity of elaborating an new strategic plan for Europe and International affairs.

Facing a context of global instability and a globalization of the systems of production and consumption, France and the European Union have to meet several challenges, including contributing to an ecological transition and resilient economies, reinforcing food security and research, improving agricultural competitiveness, and meeting the increasing needs of training and information for future citizens and professionals.

France wishes to share its vision of agriculture, food and feed, fisheries and forestry as key sectors in the national and European economies. France’s vision was reaffirmed during the Estates General of Food earlier this year. Agriculture and Food are strategic sectors that carry sustainable solutions in an increasing globalized world and are at the heart of the European project. Additionally, the art of “eating well” in its dimensions of pleasure, culture, sharing, and nutrition is a fundamental aspect of food in France.

The new strategic plan, for 2018-2002 is centered around four axes. The first is to help to build a European Union that is strong, open to the world and that protects its values, citizens and businesses on the global scale. The second is to help push for a transition to systems that have sustainable solutions, for example to help achieve food security and enhance food safety all around the globe. The next is to reinforce the position of French businesses, savoir-faire and public expertise around the globe. Finally, the last is to participate in the reinforcing of global governance of production and consumption systems through coordination with all stakeholders.